Science News - Vitamin E's Amazing Properties

Vitamin E refers to chemical compounds that are classified in two groups: tocopherols and tocotrienols. These compounds are widely known for their antioxidant properties.

In a recent study by the University of Louisiana at Monroe, researchers found that some of Vitamin E’s protective effects are not tied just to their antioxidant power. One of the most compelling results involved the therapeutic use of these compounds to fight cancerous cells. 

The study showed that Vitamin E was potent in activating the mechanism of cell death (apoptosis) in cancer cells, but it did not cause the same effect on normal, healthy cells. Preliminary findings also indicate that Vitamin E may make cancerous cells more susceptible to chemotherapy. Researchers hope that Vitamin E will play a more prominent roll in the treatment of cancer in the future.

Source: Vitamins and Hormones, Volume 76, 2007.